Argus News - Odisha Reels Under Bone-Numbing Cold; Similipal Dips To Minus 1°C

Bhubaneswar, Jan 10: Odisha is in the grip of an intense cold wave, with temperatures plummeting to record lows across the state. The Similipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district recorded a minimum of –1°C on Friday, marking the first time in 13 years that mercury levels have fallen below zero in the region.

Officials reported that the Upper Barahakamuda area had registered 0°C on Wednesday and Thursday before dipping further to –1°C, breaking past records. The biting cold has left a layer of frost across fields, grasslands and foliage, with dew drops turning into ice crystals.

According to weather officials, temperatures in other parts of the reserve also dropped sharply: Gudgudia recorded 1°C, Naana and Chahala 3°C, Barehipani 4°C, Ramatirtha 8°C, while Kiazhari and Satkosia registered 9°C. The chill has spread from the hilly interiors to the coastal plains, leaving much of Odisha shivering.

In response to the worsening cold, Mayurbhanj District Collector Hemkant Say convened a video conference with officials from all 26 blocks, two municipalities and two NACs to review preparedness. He expressed satisfaction that the situation remained under control but directed officials to ensure no individual spends the night under the open sky.

Guidelines issued during the meeting included arranging shelter for the homeless in anganwadi centres, community halls, schools and government buildings, along with food and blankets provided through Red Cross support. Panchayat-level awareness campaigns have been mandated to alert residents about safety measures, particularly in villages near Similipal’s foothills.

The administration has also advised caution in the use of electrical appliances for heating, stressing the need for vigilance to prevent accidents. Civil society organisations have been roped in to coordinate relief measures.

With the mercury continuing to dip, authorities remain on high alert, monitoring vulnerable areas and ensuring that emergency support reaches those most affected by the severe cold wave.